Pastry Squares
Sweet and buttery pastry squares filled with apricot jam, featuring a flaky crust and decorative lattice top, perfect for dessert or tea-time treats enjoyed by all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix all ingredients except the preserves.
- Press three-fourths of the mixture into a greased 9 x 13-inch pan.
- Spread about three-fourths of the apricot preserves over the dough.
- Roll out the remaining dough and cut into strips.
- Place the strips in a crisscross pattern over the preserves.
- Bake at 325°F for 25 to 30 minutes.
- Cool and cut into 2-inch squares.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using unsalted butter instead of regular butter. If you're short on time, store-bought pastry dough can be a convenient substitute. Ensure you don't overmix the dough to maintain a light texture. You can also try swapping apricot preserves for other flavors like raspberry or peach for a different twist on these pastry squares.
Serving Suggestions
These pastry squares are delightful on their own or served with a dollop of whipped cream. They pair beautifully with coffee or tea for an afternoon treat. For an upscale presentation, serve alongside fresh berries or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. They also make a great addition to any dessert platter at gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover pastry squares in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 300°F for about 10 minutes or until warm, ensuring they retain their flaky texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pastry Squares contains roughly 190 calories, with 3g protein, 35g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is a good source of calcium (11% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of flour for this recipe?
While all-purpose flour is recommended for the best texture, you can experiment with cake flour for a lighter pastry. If you're looking for gluten-free options, a gluten-free all-purpose blend may work, but results can vary.
How can I make these pastry squares healthier?
To make a healthier version, consider reducing the sugar by a third or substituting it with a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup. You can also replace half the butter with unsweetened applesauce to cut down on fat.
What can I use instead of apricot preserves?
If you don't have apricot preserves, feel free to substitute with other fruit jams or preserves like peach, raspberry, or even a mixed berry preserve. Just ensure that the flavor complements the dough for the best results.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).